Principal Research Scientist - Drug Discovery

WhatJobs Direct
Toronto, CA; US
On-site

Job Description

Our client is a leading biopharmaceutical company renowned for its commitment to scientific innovation and developing life-changing therapies. We are seeking a distinguished Principal Research Scientist to spearhead critical initiatives within our Drug Discovery division. This pivotal role will involve leading cutting-edge research programs, from target identification to preclinical development, with a focus on novel therapeutic modalities. You will work within a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment, leveraging state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies.

Responsibilities: Design and execute complex research strategies to identify and validate novel drug targets. Lead multidisciplinary research teams in the discovery and optimization of small molecules and/or biologics. Develop and implement innovative assays and experimental approaches to assess compound efficacy and safety. Oversee preclinical development activities, including in vitro and in vivo studies. Analyze and interpret complex biological data, drawing sound conclusions to guide project progression. Collaborate with medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, toxicologists, and other scientific experts. Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature, emerging technologies, and competitive landscape in relevant therapeutic areas. Author and present research findings at scientific conferences and in peer-reviewed publications. Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through patent applications and disclosures. Mentor junior scientists and foster a culture of scientific rigor and innovation. Manage external collaborations and vendor relationships. Contribute to strategic decision-making for the drug discovery pipeline. Qualifications: Ph.D. in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science discipline. A minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral research experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry. Demonstrated track record of successfully advancing drug discovery programs from concept to early clinical stages. Extensive experience in designing and conducting in vitro and in vivo efficacy studies. Strong understanding of target validation, mechanism of action studies, and PK/PD relationships. Expertise in one or more therapeutic areas such as oncology, immunology, neuroscience, or infectious diseases. Proven leadership skills with the ability to mentor and manage scientific teams. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong publication record. Experience with high-throughput screening (HTS) and other drug discovery technologies. Familiarity with biologics discovery, protein engineering, or antibody development is highly desirable. Proficiency in data analysis software and statistical methods. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and shape the future of medicine. Join our team and make a profound impact on patient lives. The position is based in Toronto, Ontario, CA .

Skills & Requirements

Technical Skills

PharmacologyBiochemistryMolecular biologyPharmaceuticalBiotechnologyTarget identificationPreclinical developmentIn vitroIn vivoBiologics discoveryProtein engineeringAntibody developmentHigh-throughput screeningData analysis softwareStatistical methodsLeadershipMentorshipCollaborationCommunicationProblem solvingDrug discoveryTherapeutic modalitiesOncologyImmunologyNeuroscienceInfectious diseases

Employment Type

FULL TIME

Level

principal

Posted

4/6/2026

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